In this episode, we delve into President Trump's proposed 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada, exploring their potential impact on video game prices and the future of physical game releases. We also discuss the latest updates on Nintendo's upcoming console, the Switch 2, including its anticipated features and release timeline. Additionall…

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we dive into the latest in gaming and tech from CES 2025! We break down Nvidia's groundbreaking reveal of the RTX 50-series GPUs, including the powerhouse RTX 5090 and RTX 5080. With cutting-edge GDDR7 memory, PCIe Gen 5 support, and the innovative Blackwell architecture, these GPUs promise to double performance over …

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we dive into the biggest reveals and moments from The Game Awards 2024. From Naughty Dog's cosmic adventure Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet to the highly anticipated The Witcher 4, we break down the latest game announcements. Capcom delights fans with the return of Okami and Onimusha, while FromSoftware unveils a c…

In this episode, we dive into PTW's new studio in Charleston, South Carolina, set to revolutionize QA testing, and analyze predictions of Ubisoft's potential privatization amidst its ongoing struggles. We explore Capcom's innovative game development competition using the RE Engine, discuss a study linking gaming to improved cognitive abilities in c…

In this episode, we delve into the latest developments shaking up the gaming world. Intel steps up with its budget-friendly Arc B580 and B570 GPUs, challenging Nvidia and AMD on performance per dollar. Ubisoft pulls the plug on XDefiant, refunding players as the once-promising shooter faces an abrupt end. We explore Codecks' €1 million funding boos…

In this episode of the M2 Podcast, we dive into the latest gaming news, starting with Balatro's impressive $4.4 million success on mobile without relying on microtransactions, highlighting the impact of premium pricing in today’s gaming economy. We also explore how Goose Byte, a studio born from an Embracer Group initiative, is navigating the turbu…

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we dive into the evolving definition of Xbox as Microsoft reimagines its gaming ecosystem beyond consoles, explore Two Point Studios' return to in-office collaboration, and discuss Sony’s rumored buyout of FromSoftware parent Kadokawa. We also cover Valve’s potential Steam Controller 2, the latest update bringing clou…

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we dive into the financial struggles of Warner Bros. Games, with CEO David Zaslav addressing a year of underperforming releases and major losses. We also explore how Riot Games' Vanguard anti-cheat system is making strides in the fight against PC gaming cheaters in Valorant. Nintendo’s Shigeru Miyamoto shares his pers…

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we delve into AMD’s powerful new Ryzen 7 9800X3D, offering enhanced gaming performance and 3D V-Cache technology. Bungie provides a development update on their highly anticipated Marathon, though gameplay footage remains elusive. We also explore Sony’s decision to close Neon Koi and Firewalk Studios, and hear strong o…

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we dive into the latest gaming news and controversies. Netflix shuts down its California-based AAA game studio, just as key leaders depart. Activision announces a new AI-driven plan to tackle Call of Duty cheaters, aiming to remove offenders within an hour. Meanwhile, Ubisoft slashes the price of the Assassin's Creed …

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we explore Analogue's modernized N64 console, the Analogue 3D, designed to deliver a nostalgic experience in 4K resolution. We discuss Ubisoft France's staff strike over return-to-office policies, Bandai Namco's controversial use of "expulsion rooms," and the implications for the industry. We also dive into the latest…

In this episode of the M2 Podcast, we explore Nintendo's surprising new Alarmo device and its unique approach to waking you up without game-like distractions. We also delve into Ubisoft's legal troubles over alleged data sharing with Meta, and the story behind a former Bethesda developer's departure to pursue his solo project, "The Axis Unseen." Pl…

In this episode, we dive into the latest gaming industry headlines, starting with Fntastic's surprising return after the controversial failure of *The Day Before* and their launch of ‘Fntastic 2.0’. We also cover Nintendo’s legal crackdown on Switch emulators, resulting in the shutdown of Ryujinx, and Hi-Rez Studios’ recent layoffs in a bid to refo…

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we cover Don't Nod's rough financial start to 2024 and their decision to pause two major projects. We also dive into Ubisoft's sudden cancellation of their Tokyo Game Show appearance, Sony's massive $400 million investment in the failed game Concord, and the real reason behind Blizzard co-founder Mike Morhaime's exit,…

In this episode of the M2 Podcast, we dive into Nintendo and Pokémon's lawsuit against the creators of Palworld for alleged patent infringement. We also explore the financial struggles of Disguised Toast's esports team, despite its passionate following, and Saber Interactive’s moves to pay down debt through fresh investments. Ubisoft announces a hy…

In this episode, we dive into major industry shifts, starting with Ubisoft's decision to add offline modes to *The Crew* games following a massive EU consumer rights campaign. We also discuss Microsoft's latest wave of layoffs, affecting 650 gaming staff, and what Xbox chief Phil Spencer's memo reveals about the future of Xbox post-Activision Blizz…

In this episode of the M2 Podcast, we delve into the latest shake-ups and decisions impacting the gaming industry. We discuss Hopoo Games' surprising closure and its founders’ move to Valve, marking the end of an era for the creators of Risk of Rain. We also explore 1047 Games’ bold decision to abandon Splitgate and launch a scalable sequel, Splitg…

In our latest podcast episode, we dive into the evolving landscape of the gaming industry, starting with GameStop's surprising pivot to retro gaming at select locations. We also explore the controversial cancellation of Crash Bandicoot 5 by Activision, shedding light on the increasing focus on online live service games. The episode takes a critical…

In our latest episode, we dive into Atari's nostalgic 7800 console remake, which not only brings back retro gaming but also lets you dust off those old Atari 2600 cartridges. We then shift to the recent layoffs at Ubisoft's U.S. offices and what it means for the industry. Next, we discuss the new Game Pass Standard tier and why it might take up to …

In our latest podcast episode, we dive into Valve’s surprise new hero shooter "Deadlock," which has already attracted thousands of players despite no official announcement from the company. We also discuss rumors surrounding the launch of the Switch 2, expected no earlier than April 2025, and the exciting revelation that Geralt of Rivia will return…

In our latest podcast episode, we explore the dynamic shifts in the gaming industry. We discuss the formation of Outer Haven Games by former Unity and Scopely developers, and the surprising move by Bungie to continue hiring after laying off 220 employees. We also touch on the abrupt end of Game Informer magazine, Warner Bros' potential exit from th…

In our latest podcast episode, we dive into the current challenges and shifts within the gaming industry. We discuss EA CEO Andrew Wilson's confidence that the ongoing video game actor strikes won't impact EA's short-term projects. Meanwhile, Bungie announces significant layoffs, affecting 17% of its workforce, as it refocuses on key projects like …

In the latest episode of the M2 Podcast, we delve into Microsoft's controversial Xbox Game Pass changes, exploring the FTC's strong response to the new "degraded" Standard tier and price hikes. We also discuss 8BitDo's unique metal-infused SN30 Pro gamepad, Blue Scarab Entertainment's ambitious MMORPG project, and the wave of unionization sweeping …

In the latest episode of the M2 Podcast, we dive into a range of intriguing gaming industry updates. We discuss Volley's successful $55m Series C fundraising round and its rise as a leader in AI-powered games for smart TVs and Alexa devices. Next, we explore the formation of Pithead Studio by former Piranha Bytes developers Björn and Jennifer Pankr…

In this episode of the M2 Podcast, we dive into some of the most intriguing recent developments in the gaming world. We start with the news of an officially licensed Steam controller by Hori, set to launch in Japan, bringing new features but missing some iconic elements from its predecessor. Next, we discuss Evo 2024's record-breaking status as the…

In this episode, we delve into the latest industry news and developments. We start by discussing how EA executives earned a staggering $60 million in 2024, even as the company underwent significant layoffs and office closures. Next, we cover Larry Hryb, known as "Major Nelson," who has joined Unity as the Director of Community after leaving Microso…

In our latest podcast episode, we break down the biggest highlights from Summer Game Fest 2024, covering an incredible array of game reveals and exciting trailers. We discuss the much-anticipated Lego Horizon Adventures, the upcoming Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions, and the brutal zombie shooter No More Room in Hell 2. Additionally, we delve into…

In our latest episode, we dive into Take-Two's potential closure or sale of its indie label Private Division, exploring what this means for the indie game scene. We also highlight Juicy Button's impressive $3 million seed funding to develop a new 4X strategy game, backed by industry veterans. Additionally, we discuss The Believer Company's release …

In the latest episode of the M2 Podcast, we dive into the impressive launch of Ubisoft's XDefiant, which has amassed nearly 8 million unique players in its first week, shattering expectations. We also discuss the ongoing saga of Star Citizen, which has now raised over $700 million without a release date in sight. YouTube's new Playables feature, of…

In our latest episode of the M2 Podcast, we dive into the tech-packed OneXPlayer X1 Mini, a handheld gaming PC featuring detachable controllers, swappable SSDs, and more. We also discuss Nintendo's surprising acquisition of Shiver Entertainment, the studio behind the Switch ports of Mortal Kombat 1 and Hogwarts Legacy. Additionally, we cover IGN's …

In our latest episode of "Bits, Bytes, and Banter," we dive deep into the current turbulence in the gaming industry. First, we discuss Epic Games facing yet another fine, this time $1.2 million from the Dutch Authority for Consumers & Markets, for exploiting children with Fortnite's microtransactions. We then shift to Ubisoft's major announcements …

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the recent shake-ups in the gaming industry, including Remedy Entertainment's cancellation of 'Project Kestrel' to focus on other projects, the fallout from a Helldivers 2 community manager's dismissal after encouraging negative reviews over a now-canceled PSN mandate, Microsoft's devastating cuts at Bet…

In our latest episode, we dive into the exciting lineup for the upcoming Xbox games showcase on June 9th, featuring an exclusive sneak peek into the next installment of Call of Duty. Additionally, we discuss FaZe Clan's shocking purge of 17 members, helmed by co-founder Richard "Banks" Bengston, signaling a major shift in the influential gaming org…

In our latest episode, we dive into the gaming world's latest headlines. From the release of the Delta emulator on the Apple App Store, offering console emulation from NES to N64, to Take-Two's courtroom victory over a tattoo artist in the NBA 2K series, we cover it all. Additionally, we discuss CI Games' surprising $60 million year, Fallout 76's r…

In the latest episode, we delve into the tumultuous landscape of the gaming industry. We discuss Take-Two's surprising layoffs and project cancellations, Ubisoft's controversial revocation of licenses for The Crew, and the heart-wrenching story of an Alan Wake fan who purchased thousands of unusable copies. Additionally, we cover the alarming theft…

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the multifaceted landscape of the gaming industry, covering diverse topics ranging from parental warnings about in-game purchases to the evolution of console exclusives. We begin with the cautionary tale of Michael and Jennifer Ferri, who discovered their 8-year-old son had unwittingly incurred $4,000 in…

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the ever-evolving landscape of the gaming industry, covering a range of topics from Embracer Group's restructuring declaration by CEO Lars Wingefors to the fascinating study revealing that some individuals possess a heightened "frame rate" perception, potentially impacting competitive gaming. We also dis…

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into a myriad of gaming industry topics, from the groundbreaking advancements of Neuralink's brain-computer interface technology, allowing individuals like Noland Arbaugh to experience newfound freedom, to the turmoil at Kotaku as editor-in-chief Jen Glennon exits due to a shift in editorial focus towards gam…

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the gaming industry's latest developments. Epic Games shakes up the market by offering developers 100% revenue for the first six months through its 'Now on Epic' program. Meanwhile, Easy Anti-Cheat denies any responsibility in the Apex Legends hacking fiasco. Embracer Group and Saber Interactive part way…

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the seismic shifts in the gaming industry, from the birth of new studios to the upheaval of established ones. We discuss the formation of Emptyvessel, a new triple-A studio led by former Id Software and Disney veterans, promising innovation and high-quality IPs. Meanwhile, the MSI Claw challenges the dom…

In our latest podcast episode, we dive into the seismic shifts in the gaming industry, from the closure of beloved brands like Rooster Teeth under Warner Bros. Discovery, resulting in significant layoffs, to Warner Bros. Discovery's strategic pivot towards live services and free-to-play mobile gaming, aiming to capitalize on emerging trends like mi…

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the tumultuous landscape of the gaming industry, where major players like Sony, Nintendo, and Electronic Arts are making seismic shifts. Sony's PlayStation division stuns with layoffs affecting 900 employees and studio closures, including PlayStation's London studio. Meanwhile, Nintendo takes legal actio…

In our latest podcast episode, we dive into critical issues facing the gaming industry. We discuss the alarming risk of game preservation highlighted by the Video Game History Foundation, where 87% of classic games in the US are at risk of being lost. We also examine the lawsuit against Activision Blizzard by Optic Texas CEO and a former star playe…

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the seismic shifts happening in the gaming and tech world. First up, we discuss Nvidia's astonishing rise to surpass giants like Amazon and Alphabet in market capitalization, solidifying its position as a tech powerhouse amid the AI boom. Then, we dissect Microsoft's strategic moves, including bringing e…

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the exciting realm of gaming technology and industry trends. First up, we explore Elgato's long-awaited HDMI 2.1 capture cards tailored for Xbox Series X and PS5 streaming, offering gamers enhanced resolution and framerate options. Then, we delve into the staggering prevalence of live-service games, with…

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the exciting world of gaming with diverse topics. First, we explore PDP's innovative Riffmaster, a wireless guitar controller set to release this Spring, compatible with Rock Band 4 and even slated for the Fortnite Festival. Shifting gears, we discuss the Federal Trade Commission's investigation into maj…

In this episode, we delve into the turbulent landscape of the video game industry, exploring the aftermath of mass layoffs that affected major studios like Amazon Games, Ubisoft, Epic Games, and Niantic. Our discussion delves into the findings of the Game Developers Conference survey, revealing the impact on developers' careers and the industry's l…

In this latest podcast episode, we delve into the dynamic shifts in the tech and gaming industry. Microsoft's ascension over Apple as the most valuable company sparks discussions on the growing impact of AI. Ubisoft takes a bold step in rebranding its subscription services, urging players to embrace a world where ownership takes a backseat. A DIY e…

In this podcast episode, we delve into the dynamic landscape of the gaming industry, exploring groundbreaking developments unveiled at CES 2024. First, we unravel the MSI Claw's entry into the handheld gaming scene, boasting an Intel Core Ultra 7 155H chip and innovative design. Next, we dissect Unity's strategic shift involving a significant workf…

In this year-end episode, we unpack the gaming landscape with a focus on the colossal highs and lows. The catastrophic story surrounding "The Day Before" unfolds as the developer shuts down shortly after launch. Our superlative round-up highlights the most and least viewed episodes, along with the longest and shortest ones, while delving into top s…